Raising the Bar Dutcher Crossing: 6 Wines to 30, Bold Sonoma Vision Pt. 3

2025-12-18

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Debra’s first major move as owner: adding vineyard-designate winesA pivotal conversation with the founding winemaker: “I need you to rise higher”Balancing respect for the past while building upon the existing foundationThe challenge of earning trust from multi-generation vineyard familiesGrowth story: from 6 wines to 30 wines—and why people thought she was crazyPhilosophy shift: not about volume, but about making the best possible casesSmall lots, big commitment: ~300-case vineyard lots

Debra’s first major move as owner: adding vineyard-designate wines

A pivotal conversation with the founding winemaker: “I need you to rise higher”

Balancing respect for the past while building upon the existing foundation

The challenge of earning trust from multi-generation vineyard families

Growth story: from 6 wines to 30 wines—and why people thought she was crazy

Philosophy shift: not about volume, but about making the best possible cases

Small lots, big commitment: ~300-case vineyard lots and the storytelling required to support them

A family-driven mindset: seize opportunities when they come

Location context: 25 miles north of Santa Rosa, near the northern end of Sonoma Valley

Dry Creek Valley growth: wineries doubled from 30 to about 60 over 20 years

A winery setting compared to Tuscany, with breathtaking vineyard views and photo-worthy landscapes

@thebestwinepod